Filipino Online Casino Players Prioritize Safety and Regulation

July 23, 2025
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Filipino Players Seek Secure and Licensed Online Casinos

In the midst of ongoing discussions in the Philippines about potentially banning online casinos, many Filipino players are increasingly concerned about the trustworthiness and safety of the online gambling sites they access. Safety and legitimacy remain top considerations for these consumers when choosing where to play.

Survey Reveals Player Preferences for Regulated Sites

A recent survey involving over 1,000 Filipino participants highlighted that more than half prefer playing at online casinos that are officially licensed and regulated. This preference stems from a desire to avoid risks like scams and unprotected gambling environments.

John Brylle L. Bae, Research Director at The Fourth Wall, reflected on the findings, noting that many players recognize that banning online gambling outright would not stop the activity. Instead, it could push gambling underground, where players face increased dangers from unregulated operators. This insight points to a demand among Filipinos for stronger regulation to ensure safer gaming experiences and enhanced consumer protections.

Public Opinion on Online Gambling Legislation

The survey also explored opinions on current laws governing online gambling. More than half of the respondents opposed a complete ban on regulated online gambling, while only a minority strongly supported such measures. Around 75% of participants agreed that banning online gambling wouldn’t eliminate it, but rather drive players toward unregulated offshore sites, jeopardizing player safety.

Gambling Spending Habits and Payment Preferences

Examining gambling behaviors further, the survey found that about 36% of players typically break even without significant wins or losses and do not borrow money to gamble. However, about 12% admitted to borrowing funds to support their gambling activities, signaling a higher risk group within the community.

Additionally, popular payment methods such as GCash are favored by many players, simplifying deposits and withdrawals in the online gambling sector.